The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish a business in the Middle East. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and favorable tax environment, the UAE offers numerous advantages for companies across various industries. Whether you’re setting up a startup or expanding an international presence, the UAE provides a business-friendly environment that is both dynamic and innovative.
Corporate Tax: As of 2023, the UAE introduced a corporate tax rate of 9% on profits exceeding a specific threshold for mainland companies. However, many free zones still offer 0% corporate tax for companies that meet certain criteria, making it a highly attractive option for businesses looking to optimize their tax strategy.
Strategic Location: The UAE serves as a gateway between the East and the West, providing easy access to markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa. Its ports and airports are some of the busiest and most efficient in the world, making it a prime hub for international trade and logistics.
100% Foreign Ownership: In certain free zones, foreign investors can have full ownership of their business without the need for a local partner. This provides a high degree of control and flexibility for entrepreneurs.
Ease of Doing Business: The UAE government has simplified the company registration process, offering clear guidelines and support services. Whether you’re setting up on the mainland or in a free zone, the registration process is straightforward and can be completed within a few days.
World-Class Infrastructure: From cutting-edge technology parks to modern office spaces and transportation networks, the UAE offers unparalleled infrastructure for businesses to thrive.
Mainland Company: A mainland company allows you to do business within the UAE market and internationally. Mainland companies are subject to the 9% corporate tax, but certain thresholds and exemptions may apply.
Free Zone Company: Free zones are designated areas where companies can benefit from tax exemptions and full foreign ownership. They are ideal for businesses focused on international trade, services, or industries like technology, finance, or manufacturing. Many free zone companies still enjoy a 0% corporate tax rate if they operate strictly within the free zone and meet specific conditions.
Offshore Company: An offshore company provides a flexible and cost-effective solution for businesses looking for minimal taxation and confidentiality. It is ideal for holding companies, asset management, or businesses that do not require a physical presence in the UAE.
Our consultancy firm specializes in providing end-to-end support for company registration in the UAE. Whether you’re choosing between a mainland, free zone, or offshore setup, we guide you through the legal, administrative, and financial aspects of the process. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring that your company is established swiftly and in compliance with all local regulations.
From selecting the right business structure to obtaining the necessary licenses and visas, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to your needs. Our goal is to make the company registration process seamless, so you can focus on growing your business in the UAE.
The UAE offers several types of companies for registration, including:
Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is the most common structure for local businesses, allowing foreign investors to hold up to 49% ownership, with the remaining 51% held by a UAE national.
Free Zone Company: These companies allow 100% foreign ownership and are established in specific free zones designed to encourage foreign investment.
Branch of a Foreign Company: A foreign company can open a branch in the UAE, which is allowed to conduct business that mirrors the activities of the parent company.
Setting up a company in a UAE Free Zone generally requires the following:
Business Activity Selection: Determine the business activities you will engage in, as different free zones cater to various sectors.
Office Space or Flexi-desk: Secure an office space or a flexi-desk in the designated free zone.
Shareholders and Directors: A minimum of one shareholder and one director is required, and they can be the same person.
Capital Requirements: Some free zones have a minimum share capital requirement, though many do not.
Trade Name Registration: Choose a unique trade name and register it with the relevant authorities.
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of a business, but this is generally limited to Free Zone Companies or certain sectors under the UAE Commercial Companies Law.
Outside free zones, ownership is typically restricted to 49%, with 51% required to be held by a UAE national, unless the business falls under specific categories where 100% ownership is permitted under recent reforms.